Oslo, August 31st
description Oslo, August 31st Overview
A recovering drug addict is granted a day of leave from his rehabilitation center to interview for a job in Oslo. Over the course of the day, he wanders the city, reconnecting with old friends and reflecting on his past, present, and uncertain future. Joachim Triers film is a quiet, devastating, and deeply empathetic look at addiction and the struggle to find meaning in a world that feels increasingly alien. The films focus on atmosphere and internal monologue makes it a powerful, if melancholic, meditation on the human condition.
info Oslo, August 31st Specifications
| Genre | Drama, Art House |
| Awards | Norwegian Film Award (Amandaprisen) for Best Director |
| Runtime | 95 minutes |
| Director | Joachim Trier |
| Language | Norwegian |
| Lead Actor | Anders Danielsen Lie |
| Screenplay | Joachim Trier, Eskil Vogt |
| Release Year | 2011 |
| Cinematography | Ola Fløenes |
| Country Of Origin | Norway |
| Production Company | Motlys |
balance Oslo, August 31st Pros & Cons
- Powerful, nuanced performance by Anders Danielsen Lie that brings authenticity and depth to the addiction narrative
- Stunning cinematography that captures Oslo's urban landscape as both beautiful and alienating, serving as a visual metaphor for isolation
- Joachim Trier's restrained, sensitive direction avoids melodrama, delivering emotional impact through subtlety rather than manipulation
- Elegant screenplay co-written with Eskil Vogt balances literary quality with raw emotional honesty
- Thoughtful exploration of themes including relapse, mortality, urban loneliness, and the search for meaning without offering easy answers
- The single-day structure creates intense dramatic focus and a meditative,real-time quality that immerses viewers in the character's mindset
- Deliberate pacing may frustrate viewers expecting conventional narrative momentum or plot development
- The melancholic, pessimistic tone can feel oppressive and may not appeal to audiences seeking uplifting or inspirational content
- Minimal exposition requires active engagement; viewers expecting clear backstory or character motivation may feel disconnected
- The open-ended conclusion may frustrate those seeking narrative closure or resolution
- Limited emotional relief or lighter moments throughout the 95-minute runtime can make the viewing experience emotionally exhausting
help Oslo, August 31st FAQ
What is the English title of Oslo, August 31st and what year was it released?
The film is titled 'Oslo, August 31st' in English (also known as 'Oslo, 31. august'). It was released in 2011 and is a Norwegian drama directed by Joachim Trier.
Is Oslo, August 31st based on a true story?
The film is loosely inspired by the 2008 French film 'Le Père de mes enfants' by Mia Hansen-Løve but is not based on a specific true story. It explores universal themes of addiction and existential crisis.
Where can I watch Oslo, August 31st online?
The film may be available on streaming platforms like MUBI, Amazon Prime Video, or iTunes, depending on your region. Check local streaming services for availability.
What language is Oslo, August 31st filmed in?
The film is filmed entirely in Norwegian and is set in Oslo, Norway. It features Norwegian actors and was produced by the Norwegian film industry.
How does Oslo, August 31st compare to other films about addiction?
Unlike typical addiction dramas, the film focuses on recovery and relapse rather than active addiction. Its intimate, character-driven approach and stunning Oslo backdrop make it more of an art-house meditation than a conventional melodrama.
What is Oslo, August 31st?
How good is Oslo, August 31st?
What are the best alternatives to Oslo, August 31st?
What is Oslo, August 31st best for?
Viewers who appreciate thoughtful, character-driven art-house dramas exploring addiction, isolation, and existential themes with cinematic artistry.
How does Oslo, August 31st compare to Avengers: Endgame?
Is Oslo, August 31st worth it in 2026?
What are the key specifications of Oslo, August 31st?
- Genre: Drama, Art House
- Awards: Norwegian Film Award (Amandaprisen) for Best Director
- Runtime: 95 minutes
- Director: Joachim Trier
- Language: Norwegian
- Lead Actor: Anders Danielsen Lie
explore Explore More
Similar to Oslo, August 31st
See all arrow_forward
![AZUR LANE - The Complete Series [Blu-ray]](https://lunoo.com/storage/thumbnails/images/wikipedia/a/37_200.png)
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
